What books did you read this summer? As I gear up for the next meeting of New York Women in Communications’ Young Professionals book club (check us out here and here), I thought I’d look back at some of the books I read this summer. Truthfully, Where’d You Go, Bernadette by Maria Semple might be the best book I’ve ever read. It’s unique—and fun.

Now, I’m on to my next book: David Sedaris’ Let’s Explore Diabetes With Owls, which I’m enjoying so far.

What’s next on your reading list? Would love to hear your picks!

PS—More recent books here and here.

In our new Brooklyn apartment, there is a tiled back splash above the stove. I didn’t think there was much I could do to make use of the space, but then I discovered this helpful tutorial over at Seventh House on the Left. Now, I just need to figure out what to hang. I love all the clever and cute ideas above! I’m also contemplating using the space for this. No matter what, I see a fun weekend project in the near future—will post pics of the final result!

(Images via CasaSugar Home)

My darling readers, happy Friday! What do you have planned for the next couple of days? I’m excited to kick back and relax—and also to cook up some homemade blueberry pancakes. Last weekend, I picked 10+ pounds and while we ate through a lot of them, we still have so many more! (Note: This is definitely a good problem to have.) Wishing you a wonderful weekend ahead. Here, to get it started right, a few happy posts from around the web:

Colorful wrists.

The best way to say ‘I love you’.

Music to focus by.

How to exit a taxi gracefully.

Yes! Nick Miller!

Dazzling blue.

Aca-awesome.

Amazing advice (thanks, Joanna!).

Living vicariously.

I’m intrigued.

Perfect scrambled eggs.

By the sea.

(Image via Pinterest)

How often do you switch up your nail polish color when you go and get a manicure? I prefer to pick a new color every season, switching shades of polish at the same time I rotate the clothes in my closet. 🙂 Don’t get me wrong—I love variety and trying new things, but I like having a go-to nail color at the ready. Enter Chanel Le Vernis Nail Colour in Orange Fizz. It’s subtle, classic, and gorgeous. In the past, I’ve opted for darker shades (like this or this), but this pink and orange blend seems like the perfect way to seamlessly transition from summer to fall. 

What do you think? Do you have a favorite fall nail color yet?

(Image via Daily Dose of L.I.E.S.)

It’s been a while since we’ve talked a cappella here, but the news of a Pitch Perfect sequel was a reminder that I’m overdue. 🙂 Did you see the first film? If not, you better catch it now—not only is a follow-up flick in the works, the cast is recording a holiday album due out just in time for Christmas this year.

I remember when the Wheatones—my former group—used to travel around to sing holiday music at local nursing homes, children’s hospitals, and more. There was something so fun about switching up our set list, learning harmonies for classic Christmas tunes, and then taking it on the road.

Now, the big question: What will Anna Kendrick sing on this new holiday album? (Click here to listen to her impressive pop rendition of “Cups”.)

(Image 1, 2)